Calc Guide

Introduction
A Calc document is a very capable database, providing sufficient
functionality to satisfy the needs of many users. This chapter presents
the capabilities of a Calc document that make it suitable as a database
tool. Where applicable, the functionality is explained using both the
GUI (Graphical User Interface) and macros.
Note
Although this document was initially created for macro
programmers, the content should be accessible to all users. If you
do not use macros, then skip those portions that deal with
macros. On the other hand, if you want to learn more about
macros, be certain to check out the book OpenOffice.org Macros
Explained.
In a database, a record is a group of related data items treated as a
single unit of information. Each item in the record is called a field. A
table consists of records. Each record in a table has the same
structure. A table can be visualized as a series of rows and columns.
Each row in the table corresponds to a single record and each column
corresponds to the fields. A spreadsheet in a Calc document is similar
in structure to a database table. Each cell corresponds to a single field
in a database record. For many people, Calc implements sufficient
database functionality that no other database program or functionality
is required.
While teaching, a spreadsheet might be used as a grading program.
Each row represents a single student. The columns represent the
grades received on homework, labs, and tests (see Table 12). The
strong calculation capability provided in a spreadsheet makes this an
excellent choice.
Table 12. Simple grading spreadsheet
A B C D E F G
1
Name Test 1 Test 2 Quiz 1 Quiz 2 Average Grade
2
Andy
95 93 93 92 93.25
3
Betty
87 92 65 73 79.25
4
Bob
95 93 93 92 93.25
5
Brandy
45 65 92 85 71.75
6
Frank
95 93 85 92 91.25
7
Fred
87 92 65 73 79.25
358 OpenOffice.org 3.x Calc Guide